Regarding "TriMet slices services, to jeers" (June 14): The recent decision to eliminate the Free Rail Zone is shortsighted and disappointing. Free public transportation downtown has long been a strong selling point for visitors to Portland and has bolstered our city's reputation as an attractive, friendly, livable place.

I wonder why business interests, including the Rose Quarter and the Oregon Convention Center, aren't lobbying to continue the Free Rail Zone. Avoiding the hassle of driving or the cost of parking in that zone has undoubtedly been a big draw for them.

The city of Portland, the business community and TriMet need to come together to find a creative solution that allows the Free Rail Zone to continue. The image and reality of Portland as a progressive-minded city would take a big hit if the Free Rail Zone was done away with.

That was wrong from the beginning. Portland doesn't own TriMet. The entire tri-county area supports it.

The downtown area has no more right to free rides than Beaverton, Hillsboro or Gresham.

Glenn R. SharpHillsboro

Respect for the flag

I took my granddaughters, ages 4 and 2 1/2, to the Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade last Saturday. When we saw the police cars coming, I said we had to stand up and explained to the girls about the color guard and showing respect for the American flag. The older one had questions, which we answered, and then we stood to honor the flag. What a disappointment that the adults behind us remained seated. It wasn't so easy to explain that one.

The 4-year-old then popped to her feet every time she saw the flag for the rest of the parade, and I didn't try to stop her.

As for the rest of the parade, they loved the queens on horses and the bands. I enjoyed the floats, especially the big red rose.

Susan HammillSalem

Delay doesn't detract

Regarding "Streetcar debut off rails" (June 13): If the biggest issue with the eastside streetcar project is a delay in launching, I don't see a problem. An Oregon manufacturing company is learning the intricacies of a new and potentially growing business. A successful launch, whether on time or not, could mean more manufacturing jobs in the future, bolstering a domestic business sector that is chronically weak.

It's not as if the new line has riders huddling in the rain waiting for a streetcar to rescue them.

Growing pains, yes. Problem? No.

Kevin FeltsClackamas

The value of education

Regarding "Why four years of college isn't right for everyone" (June 14): Robert J. Samuelson continues to assess the value of a college degree as an advantage to gain employment. He makes the case that many jobs do not require a college degree and that alternative job training is important. The large debt many graduates assume and the need for making college more affordable are clear. But he stops short of recognizing the additional value of higher education to the degree holder and society.

A primary goal of higher education is to turn out graduates who are critical thinkers. This process allows for the conceptualization, analysis, and evaluation of information critical to the success of any decision-making process. Successful labor, business, professional or governmental environments demand critical thinking. In addition, unemployment numbers for holders of a college degree are far lower than for those without a degree.

The better educated our populace, the more contributors we will have to society, and the better able we will be to compete in the 21st century.

Patrick J. SmithGladstone

Although four years of college may not be right for everyone, most jobs in the United States need specialized training. As a basic math instructor at Portland Community College, I find that high school math, both on the East and West Coasts, bypasses the undirected high school student.

My favorite moment in my class, after working through a math concept and showing a practical application in the real world, comes from the back of the room: "That's how it works?"

Mary GlennSoutheast Portland

The usual conversation about the value of college has a narrow focus: Will the time and money spent there get a graduate a good job? However, because the answer involves individuals differences, it is the wrong question. In my view, a college-educated person typically employs certain indispensable skills with an appreciation for what really counts in life. However, instead of college for everyone, I suggest we consider that our secondary educational system fails by not providing multiple options for education.

Finally, I am continually aware that my college experience has enabled me to appreciate what we call culture. College also persuaded me that I should contribute to society because it has made the things we treasure in life possible in the first place.

My thinking would be different if I had missed out on college. Happily, that's not the case. Bob GearySouthwest Portland